As the world collectively turns to comfort baking during these strange and uncertain times, a classic recipe from none other than The Queen has resurfaced online.
The recipe for drop scones, also known as “Scotch pancakes”, was first written by the monarch to former American President Dwight Eisenhower when she was just 34 years old, along with some of her own baking tips.
A drop scone or Scotch pancake is very similar to a regular pancake, except it is slightly thicker and fluffier than your average pancake – some would say even better!
President Eisenhower and his wife Marnie had visited the Queen at her Balmoral estate in Scotland and were so taken with the baked goods they enjoyed during their stay, that she decided to share her recipe with the couple.
The recipe from Her Majesty’s own private collection was first published in Letters of Note by Shaun Usher in 2013 and has remerged, as people around the world reignite their love of baking while in lockdown.
.png?resize=380%2C285)
The Queen’s recipe for drop scones has reemerged online.
(Image: Getty)
Queen Elizabeth II and President Dwight Eisenhower at a White House State banquet in 1957.
(Image: Getty)Her Majesty wrote a personal message alongside the recipe in her letter to the President.
“Dear Mr President,” the letter began.
“Seeing a picture of you in today’s newspaper, standing in front of a barbecue grilling quail, reminded me that I had never sent you the recipe of the drop scones which I promised you at Balmoral. I hope you will find them successful.
She continued: “Though the quantities are for 16 people, when there are fewer, I generally put in less flour and milk, but use the other ingredients as stated.”
And she offered up some extra cooking tips.
“I have also tried using golden syrup or treacle instead of only sugar and that can be very good, too.
“I think the mixture needs a great deal of beating while making, and shouldn’t stand about too long before cooking.”
A copy of the recipe Her Majesty sent to the US President.
(Image: Supplied)
Scotch pancakes are similar to regular pancakes, except they are slightly thicker and fluffier.
(Image: Getty)The Queen’s drop scone (or “Scotch pancake”) recipe
Serves 16
INGREDIENTS
4 teacups flour
4 tablespoons caster sugar
2 teacups milk
2 whole eggs
2 teaspoons bicarbonate of soda
3 teaspoons cream of tartar
2 tablespoons melted butter
INSTRUCTIONS
Step 1: Beat the eggs, sugar and about half the milk together.
Step 2: Add the flour and mix well together, adding the remainder of milk as required.
Step 3: Add the bicarbonate and cream of tartar, then fold in the melted butter.
Step 4: Heat a frying or griddle pan with some melted butter in. Pour in two or three large spoonfuls of the batter (make sure they don’t touch each other) – these will be your drop scones or “Scotch pancakes”.
Step 5: When the batter is bubbling on top, flip over each drop scone. They are ready when each side is slightly browned.
Step 6: Serve with whatever you fancy: fresh fruit, maple syrup, jam, you decide!
WATCH BELOW: The Queen tells onlookers she is “perfectly capable” of planting a tree on her own.
